Summer 2026: A Letter From Bonnie

By: Bonnie Christine

Story Adapted From Pattern Magazine – Volume 5

Summer holds an unmistakable warmth. 

The sky becomes a palette of bright blues, inviting us to step outside and soak in the sunlight. We spend our days at the lakehouse, water glittering and lapping against the dock. 

It’s puzzles and paintbrushes outside on the lawn. Ollie and Bear squealing with laughter as they skid across the boat's wake on the inner tube. Early morning hikes and family movie nights piled in the living room. 

Moments that fill the soul. 

Color is unmistakable in these months, especially in my garden. As I fill my apron with shishito peppers for dinner, I can’t help but notice the rich layers of green. The dahlias in full display rival the peachy pinks of summer’s sunsets. And the butterflies, in pique season, dance from bloom to bloom, adding the perfect splash of yellow to the scene. 

Rather than pull out my paints and capture the beauty right then, I pause and enjoy. I gather the warmth and let it fill my creative reservoir. 

I press into the understanding that this season holds the refreshment my creative heart needs. That this sunshine before me, these long days of laughter and carefree, are just as important to the creative process. Between the unpredictable schedules and unproductive hours, there is a painting or pattern I’ll be inspired to begin designing in a season to come. 

So I gather the sunshine before me, the beauty on display. And I let creativity look a bit different in this season: outdoor parties celebrating dear friends, laughter filling the table, and delicious scoops of ice cream. Books outside in the hammock, swinging under the trees. Messy crafts and intentional play with my kids. Artistic moments on the go. Views that take my breath away. 

The warmth of summer gives us inspiration, ideas to hold, stories and moments to fuel our creativity. My hope is that these pages encourage you to gather this warmth. To gather this sunshine.

With love,
Bonnie

Wanting More?

Read the full Summer issue of Pattern Magazine.